Friday, July 8, 2022

We Cruised Amazon For The Best Cheap Summer Dresses

Super-Sale Alert: Select products featured in this story might be on sale for Prime Day! For more insider information on Amazon's 48-hour event, consult our Shopping team's curated guides to the deals that matter here.

Amazon Prime Day is among us and even when searching very specifically for things like a vibey pair of hot-girl sunglasses or a baggage-fee beating duffle bag, it's still easy to get lost in Amazon's labyrinth of hidden gems. We know this because we often spend hours on end browsing the e-behemoth for such diamonds in the rough so you don't have to. Our latest and greatest expedition into its virtual ether is for cheap summer dresses — you know, frocks that look cute as hell but won't blow the dinner budget.

As you can imagine, there's a seemingly endless array of cheap dresses available to shop during Prime Day. We went ahead and weeded out the duds, pulling together this here selection of hidden-gem options that come with positive reviews and low-price points (as in ALL under $100 with many under $50!). (And, if you're not an Amazon fan, click over to our coverage of the best Prime Day alternative sales.) Ahead, shop the warm-weather frocks awash in vibrant patterns and show-stopping cuts.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff—and, while we do receive commission from Amazon, all of the goods linked to on our site are independently curated by our Most Wanted shopping team editors. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication.

Naggoo Women's Summer Wrap Floral V Neck


"I got the XL. I am 5' 7", 38 triple D, flat tummy, no rear on the back (but a bit hippy on the sides) and weigh about 170 on a good day. This fit me perfectly! If you don't mind the girls getting to see the sights, it's fine. Otherwise, sew a tiny snap up there for Sunday Meetin and you're all set. It's not see through, so no issues there. And I love how the sleeves perfectly cover my middle age build up of flab. :)

"I love the long back and shorter front! It's probably not the best length for me personally, as I usually prefer my knees to show a tad- as that's the perfect length for my silhouette, but if I strike a pose and saunter along with a wind fan blowing the skirt just right (like the model), then it's PERFECT! ;) Seriously though, it's a great little dress!" -G.Weber

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Naggoo Women's Summer Wrap Floral V Neck, $, available at Amazon

R.Vivimos Summer Floral Print Puff Sleeve Dress


"I'm so happy with my purchase! I received many compliments when wearing this dress and it makes sense because it’s lovely! It’s super comfortable too. It’s beautiful to wear out but also comfortable enough to wear around the house. It’s just as beautiful on the shoulder, though I prefer it off, the great thing is that it stays put whichever way you should wear it. I highly recommend it!"-Melanie Grace

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R.Vivimos Summer Floral Print Puff Sleeve Dress, $, available at Amazon

Lillusory Casual Sleeveless Tank Dress


"This dress is...very true to how it looks but it's thicker than you think. It's a soft t-shirt like material on the outside but is lined with a stretchy, silky second layer which makes it not see-through and a tad thicker. Very flattering and a very appropriate length for all-day activities." – Amazon Reviewer

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LILLUSORY Casual Sleeveless Tank Dress, $, available at Amazon

LKOUS Short-Sleeve Tiered Mini Dress


"I purchased this for a romantic evening on the beach with the hubby. It is a really beautiful design and a very cool dress. It is a bit smaller than it is sized. I was able to squeeze into it and hubby thought it looked great. It is sexy yet very elegant for a date night. It is the perfect summer dress and is great with being barefoot while walking on the beach or with a pair of nice flip-flops. It is machine washable and it does not shrink. This dress does bring out the wild side in you." – Amazon Reviewer

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LKOUS Summer Short Sleeve Round Neck Ruffles Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon

Allegra K Floral Mini Faux Wrap Dress


"This is a beautiful dress. Great for warm weather and tie on the side helps to accentuate waist. I went with a large instead of medium because of the waist tie and it fits perfectly!" - Amazon Reviewer

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allegra k Floral Print V Neck Faux Wrap Dress, $, available at Amazon

Miessial Striped Linen Midi Dress


"This summer dress is a must-have! I must have worn it at least once a week all summer long. It’s so comfortable and the material is breathable.. even on humid days. The pockets are ideal and the flutter cap sleeves couldn’t be cuter. I ordered a large for just a little better wiggle room and glad I did because it fits perfectly. I wore it with white sneakers, sandals, and espadrilles so it’s very versatile. Looking forward to pulling it out of the closet next summer." – Amazon Reviewer

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Miessial Striped Linen Midi Dress, $, available at Amazon

Goodthreads Georgette Smock-Back Cami Midi Dress


"This dress is so cute, and every time I leave the house in it, I am flooded with compliments. I always answer that Amazon sent it to me because I got it as a Prime wardrobe pick. People love it, and it is not something that I would ever pick out for myself but it is very flattering. Also lightweight, machine washable, perfect." – Amazon Reviewer

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Goodthreads Amazon Brand - Goodthreads Women's Georgette Smock-Back Cami Midi Dress, $, available at Amazon

Wild Meadow Sleeveless Tank Knit Swing Dress


"Super cute and soft! Nice, smooth jersey fabric, very flowy and soft. Very comfortable! It's got a shape to it and isn't tent-like, but is very breezy with no clinging anywhere. Waist and hips are free, so don't size up unless you are a very loose fit." - Amazon Reviewer

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Wild Meadow Sleeveless Tank Knit Swing Dress, $, available at Amazon

Milumia Plus-Size Cold Shoulder Floral Dress


"Wow! Get yourself this dress! I cannot recommend it enough! I'm working through a lot of self-esteem issues because of recent weight gain, but this dress made me feel BEAUTIFUL, sexy, and confident. All things I haven't felt like in a while. Seriously, wearing it I felt like an ethereal wood nymph roaming the streets of Paris. It definitely gave me a much-needed confidence boost. Just be aware that the neckline slipped often from modest to BAM cleavage! It wasn't a major problem for me since I'm not big chested, but just keep that in mind if you have a bigger chest. I am 5'8, size 16/18 in pants, and typically wear 2X in dresses and tops. I sized up to a 3X because I like maxi dresses to flow a lot rather than cling. But I probably would've been fine with a 2X." – Amazon Reviewer

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Milumia Milumia Plus Size Cold Shoulder Floral Dress, $, available at Amazon

KIRUNDO Gingham Ruffle Mini Dress


"This cute flattering summer dress delivers comfort and style!! I ordered two different sizes cuz you never know and ended up keeping the larger one ONLY because it provided a little more length. I’m 5’9” and 170#. I could have easily worn the large as there was plenty of room, but the XL had about an inch more on the length without the armholes getting too long. I would recommend getting your normal size, but if you’re tall like me, just know it could hit you above mid-thigh. The fabric is very soft and washes well. I hung to dry and threw into the dryer for 10 mins on med to help with the wrinkles." – Amazon Reviewer

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Kirundo Gingham Ruffle Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon

Zesica Strapless Floral Maxi Dress


"Just as gorgeous in person as it is in pictures!!! I’m 5’7” 145 pounds 36B bra size, around a size 10 dress, bought this in Medium and it fits perfectly. The print, color, fabric, all so beautiful! I tried it on without a bra and for me at least with my relatively small bust, it works perfectly that way which I’m happy about! But for those who would prefer to not go bra-less, a strapless bra would of course work too. The biggest takeaway is that I’m someone who is extreeeeemely “thrifty” when buying clothes, this thing was $29 which for me is such a high price to pay that I bought it thinking it would be fun to try on but it would have to be absolutely unforgettably stunning for me to keep something I paid that much on. Yes, I’m really that cheap lol but also, the moment I tried this on I knew I was keeping it, so it is really truly a beautiful, well-made, standout type of dress! And worth every penny. If you are in love with this dress like I was (and am!) but aren’t sure if you’ll really love it as much in person: you will. You’ll love it even more. I hope this helps! :)" – Amazon Reviewer

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Zesica Strapless Floral Maxi Dress, $, available at Amazon

Rosianna Off-The-Shoulder Plus-Size Mini Dress


"I bought this dress for a bridal shower! I was a little nervous about the color at first (not that it wasn’t a beautiful color, it is) I was nervous about how the color would look on me. I put it on and fell in love. I know people wrote reviews all the time and say “I got tons of compliments” and half the time I think “yeah, sure you did.” I never write reviews but I had to because I got tons of compliments!!! Seriously! Walking to my car..."that’s a great dress!” Going to the atm before the shower “omg that color is amazing”. At the shower “where is that from?” “That looks amazing on you”. They kept rolling in! I felt like a million bucks in it!!! It’s a larger size but I’m a true 3x and it fit me perfectly. I even felt like it covered my not-so-good area! Buy this!!!!!!!!!! You won’t be sorry. I’m ordering the other colors right after I type it!!!!" – Amazon Reviewer

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ROSIANNA Off-The-Shoulder Ruffle Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon

Ritual Georgette Fluid Drape Slip Dress


"Bought the orange zebra print dress—color is a lot more brown than orange, kind of like a clay color in person. Dress is quite clingy and you get a lot of static which makes it cling to your body. [Might want to buy some static guard too.] I do like the fact that the straps are adjustable but know that this dress runs big (and long). I’m 5’5” and the dress reaches mid-calf." - Amazon Reviewer

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Daily Ritual Georgette Fluid Drape Slip Dress, $, available at Amazon

PrettyGarden Sleeveless Maxi Dress


"This dress is so pretty and comfortable. It's lightweight and flows. There is a liner under so you can't see through it. I recommend going up a size. I am a size 8 medium. 36 D and 5 '6, and ordered a large. I honestly love this dress. I am thinking about ordering another one." – Amazon Reviewer

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Prettygarden Sleeveless Ruffle Maxi Dress, $, available at Amazon

Ruched Bodycon Mini Dress


"This is a super versatile dress. You can easily dress it down or up! It stretches and material is good quality." -Amazon Reviewer

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Yuoioyu Ruched Bodycon Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon

Eytino Long-Sleeve Mini Dress


"LOVE!!!!!!!!!! I live in Florida, where it is extremely hot every day of the year, except maybe 10 days. So to wear a dress of this nature in the fall is completely normal. This is one of my best purchases off Amazon. I love it so much, I bought another one in a different style. The material is great. I can see where it might be delicate. But I don’t mind handwashing stuff. I own a lot of delicate clothing. You will not be sorry if you buy this dress!!!!" – Amazon Reviewer

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Eytino Long-Sleeve Open-Back Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon

Floerns Boho Floral Print Off Shoulder Dress


"Such a cute summer dress! It fits perfectly, really flowy and very flattering." – Amazon Reviewer

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Floerns Floerns Boho Floral Print Off Shoulder Dress, $, available at Amazon

Ellos Smocked Bodice Tank Dress


"Love this sun dress, already have in 3 colors. It is made of a nice sturdy cotton, and this is maybe TMI, but the smocked top is double material (not like other smock tops I own) so it is perfect for smaller breasted women because you don't have to wear a bra. :)" - Amazon Reviewer

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Ellos Smocked Bodice Tank Dress, $, available at Amazon

YESNO Cotton Maxi Dress


"I loved the dresses. They fit perfectly and arrived on time. It’s very hot these days and I needed something cool to wear. These dresses allow airflow all over my body keeping me cool and comfortable. They are also beautiful and I have received many compliments. I plan to order many more to take me through the summer. They can be both casual and dressy. Absolutely love them." – Amazon Reviewer

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YESNO Cotton Maxi Dress, $, available at Amazon

Eytino Summer Tunic Dress


"This dress is super loose-fitting yet still looks flattering. It is very comfortable and the perfect dress to just throw on. Can be dressed up or down!" – Amazon Reviewer

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Eytino Summer Tunic Dress, $, available at Amazon

Daily Rituals Jersey Ballet-Back T-Shirt Dress


"Like wearing jammies, but fancier. I did yard work in it today (sweeping and trimming). Also have used it as a swimsuit cover-up. Dries quickly. Runs a bit large. Size down so it hangs right on your shoulders. Oh, and ballet back means neckline much higher in front and dips lower in the back. That’s right! I’m a freakin BALLERINA in this super stretchy dress." – Amazon Reviewer

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Daily Ritual Jersey Standard-Fit Ballet-Back T-Shirt Dress, $, available at Amazon

ETCYY Off-The-Shoulder Tiered Chiffon Dress


"I've been eyeing this dress on one of my favorite boutique's website but they've been out of stock of it for a while. When I came upon it on Amazon, I knew I had to buy it. I was nervous that the quality wouldn't be that great, but with it being a third of the price of the original one, I decided to take a chance, and I'm so glad I did! The quality is amazing and the color is exactly what I expected. There is elastic along the sleeves so it stays in place very nicely. The fit is wonderful, and I can't wait to wear it to a friend's wedding in a few weeks!" – Amazon Reviewer

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ETCYY Off-The-Shoulder Tiered Chiffon Dress, $, available at Amazon

Milumia Plus Size Short Sleeve Wrap Dress


"LOVE THIS DRESS!! I typically wear a 2x in dresses and tops and size 18 jeans. The 2x in this dress fits perfectly. The fabric isn’t cotton but feels nice and breezy for the summer. The green color is so romantic and lovely. I am ordering in every color. Can’t say enough good things!" – Amazon Reviewer

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Milumia Plus Size Short Sleeve Wrap Dress, $, available at Amazon

Zesica Summer Florals Wrap Mini Dress


"I have never been more excited to write a review. I am 5 foot three, I weigh 155 pounds, and my breast size is a triple D sometimes an E. Being short and curvy it’s really hard to find something that fits in all the right areas. I end up buying things and either loving them or having to send them back. Usually, it’s sending them back. This dress fit like a glove and made me look absolutely beautiful. Even my 16yr old son said so and you know how hard it is to get compliments out of the 16-year-old boy. So, I ordered two more. I can not thank this company enough for holding true to their promise of quality. Thank you!" – Amazon Reviewer

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Zesica Summer Wrap Mini Dress, $, available at Amazon

Bodycon Midi Stretchable Dress


"Ok so I initially saw this dress on like a size 2 person, and when I see that there aren’t different sizes; just one size fits all.....I’m skeptical. I’m a size 10, like will it really fit me? I’m glad I took a gamble and bought the dress! It’s BEAUTIFUL! When I pulled it out of the bag, the weight and texture felt like a higher quality than I was expecting. And that little U slit in the back makes it super comfy to walk in. It’s stretchy, warm, it fits my curves and the ribbed texture hides little lumps and bumps." - Amazon Reviewer

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RZIV Bodycon Midi Stretchable Dress, $, available at Amazon

Relipop Short-Sleeve Wrap Dress


"This dress is so pretty and cute. Different dresses make you feel different ways, this one made me feel really cute, sweet, playful. I got a large and I normally wear large or medium. I did have to add a button on the inside because it’s a wrap dress but that was no problem. Took 3 minutes. I am ordering another dress in a different color. I currently have the red one and the polka dots are very light pink. I’m 5’2 and the length was just right. Mid-thigh maybe - around there. I also added a little hook to the chest because I didn’t like how it looked with a shirt underneath and I didn’t want to be too exposed." – Amazon Reviewer

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Relipop Short Sleeve V Neck Casual Short Dresses, $, available at Amazon

Ivenzse Plus-Size Chiffon Maxi Dress With Belt


"I have never in my life received so many compliments on a garment before. Seriously. I ordered this dress for a photoshoot during my birthday vacation. It is absolutely stunning. I am going to purchase two more in other colors. I ordered a 2x. For reference, I am 5'8..and wear a size 18...I am hour-glass shaped and this dress drags the floor. I felt like a princess. IT FLOWS. Don't hesitate to buy it...almost didn't want to share this because I don't want everyone to have my dress." – Amazon Reviewer

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lvenzse Chiffon Maxi Dress With Belt, $, available at Amazon

Ecowish Tie-Front Midi Dress


"I’m 5’5” weigh 207 and have a B cup. I bought the XL for a summer wedding coming up. I was really worried because I have already returned a dress and, with the date approaching fast, this was my last chance before being forced to go to a store during COVID. Seconds after it was dropped at my door I tried it on and I’m so very happy. Anyone my size knows it’s a hit or miss when shopping online and this is a definite HIT!! It’s comfortable and the pleating makes my tummy look nonexistent, I really like that you can tie the top yourself because not everyone who is plus size is large in the chest." – Amazon Reviewer

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Ecowish Tie Front Midi Dress, $, available at Amazon

Amazon Essentials Plus-Size Surplice Maxi Dress


"Is it the print? I don't know, but I get compliments from family members and strangers. (I purchased the blue and green print.) The fabric is really good quality and comfortable. I wore it during this crazy heatwave this summer and stayed very cool. It does not cling either as the fabric is mid-weight. Our winters are very mild, so this will be a four seasons dress. The cut itself is large and will accommodate large shoulders and busts. If you are narrow, please keep this in mind. I probably could have gone down a size and still have this work. One thing to watch is washing. My sense is the print will lose intensity and crispness. I plan to wash in a laundry bag and dry on extra-low or air. Oh yes, I'm 5'4" and this is a real ankle grazer. I wouldn't mind an inch or two shorter." – Amazon Reviewer

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Amazon Essentials Plus-Size Surplice Maxi Dress, $, available at Amazon

Sidefeel Crewneck Short Sleeve T Shirt Dress


No reviews, yet!


Sidefeel Crewneck Short Sleeve T Shirt Dress, $, available at Amazon

R.Vivimos Backless Long Summer Dress


Size Range: S-XL
" I received so many compliments on this dress! It's beautiful and the material was of great quality. Perfect boho vacation dress. It fit true to size. I'm a size 14 and I ordered an xl, you don't need a bra this dress holds you in. I'm a 36D." - Amazon Reviewer

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R.Vivimos R.Vivimos Womens Summer Cotton Sexy Blackless Long Dresses, $, available at Amazon

Ellos Sandy Shirtwaist Dress


"Absolutely love this dress!! I receive so many compliments, and let's be honest, who doesn't like to hear that they look cute? Has a somewhat retro vibe, a bold red lippy is excellent with this dress. I will say that I have large breasts, 44DDD, and with the 'right' bra, I JUST get the girls in, without a gap at a 2x. I might size up for the next one, if only for the boobies. But that being said, I am 5'11'' and weigh about 260lbs, and the dress fits perfectly. Love the way it cuts in on the hips and the shape of the dress, def a fit and flare style, which is very flattering to women of size (no swing dresses, please, with large breasts...looks like a tent). Anyway, feel confident in this purchase, but if you don't, returns are free, right?" – Amazon Reviewer

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Ellos Sandy Shirtwaist Dress, $, available at Amazon

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